Full Potential Dog Training

12/10/2025

The holiday Cocktails and Canine Conversations with Laurie and Maria is up on my You Tube Channel. Check it out, share and don't forget to subscribe!
Holiday Puppy Ep #4
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Holiday Puppy Ep #4

12/08/2025

Every December I get at least a couple worried messages about dogs sneaking something off the holiday table.
I get it — food is everywhere this time of year!
Here are the big ones to watch for:
- Chocolate
-Grapes/raisins
- Xylitol
- Rich/fatty foods
- Cooked bones.
A little prevention goes a long way. If you’re not sure about something, skip it or ask your vet.

12/05/2025

I love seeing how dogs react to the first real snow of the season!
(Was what we just got the other day real snow?)
Some act like they’ve been waiting all year. Others immediately want to go back inside.
Drop your dog’s first snow pic — I want to see them all.

11/27/2025

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!
I’m so grateful for all the dogs and families I get to work with. May your tables be full and your pups be happy.

11/25/2025

All those yummy smells are hard to resist! Adolescent dogs sometimes get tempted to jump on counters or tables.
I work on “leave it” and “place” so they know boundaries — keeps them safe and your Thanksgiving stress-free.

11/23/2025

Thanksgiving is coming! Does your dog get a little nibble, hang out calmly nearby, or just watch the chaos?
I’d love to hear how your adolescent dog handles the holiday madness! Share your traditions below!

11/21/2025

When friends or family arrive, I teach dogs to hang out on a mat or in a designated spot until I say it’s okay to greet.

It keeps greetings safe and calm, especially for adolescents still learning their limits. And don't feel bad if this is too much for your pup. Using a leash, baby gates or a kennel to help contain the chaos can help set them up for success too!

A few minutes of practice each day goes a long way.

11/17/2025

The holidays are a great time to spoil our pups with a little something special!
I like giving my adolescent dogs safe, tasty treats — like a stuffed Kong, a bit of pumpkin, or a small chew.
What’s your dog’s favorite holiday snack?

11/13/2025

Adolescent dogs do best with structure, especially when routines change for holiday guests.
These steps help everyone enjoy the visit and keep your pup from getting overwhelmed!

11/11/2025

11/11/2025

My baby is a STAR! Thank you Hershey Greet for featuring this beautiful girl!!!!

11/11/2025

The holidays mean more kids in the house! Dogs who aren’t used to children may feel uncertain, and even dogs who know their kids might need help with visiting kids who don’t know them.
Active adult supervision is key! Never leave dogs and kids unsupervised.

I usually recommend:

Kids should always ask the adult first before petting a dog.

Keep hands slow and gentle.

If a kiddo is too little to follow instructions, they can wave or blow kisses to the dog.

Avoid hugging or kissing the dog.

Reward calm behaviors so the dog AND kids learn polite interactions

Provide a safe spot for the dog to hang out away from the kids if they seem overwhelmed or if you cannot be actively supervising

Teaching kids and dogs how to respect each other helps prevent stress and sets everyone up for a happy, safe home!